Elmhurst Museum Day is budget-friendly event for Chicago families

We all know that three for the price of one is a pretty good deal. And when that price is free … well, who can argue with that?

That’s just one benefit of Elmhurst Museum Day, an annual celebration of the three unique museums found in the western suburb. Families can hop the free trolley to travel between the museums, which each feature a special kid-friendly activity for the day. Everyone who gets a stamp at all three locations is entered into a prize drawing.

At Elmhurst Historical Museum (120 E. Park Ave.), check out the Chicago-flavored exhibit “Cubs vs. Sox: The Chicago Civil Wars.” Create your own baseball card and pose for photos with baseball mascots. But remember: whoever you choose for your photo op could establish your side in the age-old battle for decades to come.

Lizzadro Museum (220 Cottage Hill Ave.), a little-known spot devoted to lapidary art (the act of cutting and polishing stones), opens its doors for visitors to see Jade carvings, gemstones and the stunning Castle Lizzadro. Kids can take home a rock critter—and the care of this kind of pet won’t fall to Mom or Dad!

For those who have a more artistic bent, be sure to hit Elmhurst Art Museum (150 Cottage Hill Ave.), where you can see the colorful “Lifeloggers: Chronicling the Everyday,” which features artists who use their daily lives as inspiration. A related craft helps kids turn their own lives into works of art. Check out the Artivity, an interactive art wall designed just for families.

All of the museums are situated in and around Elmhurst’s central Wilder Park, which is home to an expansive playground and the (also free) Wilder Conservatory. If the weather cooperates, arrive early for a picnic, catch the trolley and take advantage of the culture Elmhurst has to offer.